Doctors have different specializations, like body systems, diseases, or age groups. These areas of focus allow healthcare providers to treat patients better. One example is adolescent medicine, which specializes in the health of people aged 10 to 21. Adolescents benefit from seeing a specialist that knows how to care for the unique needs of this age group. These doctors can provide comprehensive services by understanding the patient’s background, lifestyle, and goals.
Let’s talk about what an adolescent medicine doctor may ask patients during the first visit and where you can find the best adolescent medicine doctor in Purchase, NY.
1) What Are Your Biggest Health Concerns?
This question lets the doctor understand what’s been bothering their patient. It also gives them an idea of what kind of help the individual needs.
The answer can include the following:
- Growth changes
- Underlying health conditions
- Preventive care
2) How Have Physical Changes Affected You?
Adolescence is a time of rapid physical change, growth spurts, and puberty. These changes may impact a patient’s health. The doctor needs to understand how the patient is handling this transformation.
Some of these changes include the following:
- Increased body size
- Changes in skin texture and tone
- Increase in hormones
Because adolescents are still developing, the doctor needs to understand if any changes are causing a patient concern.
3) How’s Your Diet?
Adolescent nutrition is essential for healthy growth and development. Doctors may ask about these things:
- What foods their patient eats
- How much water do they consume
- If there are any dietary restrictions
The adolescent years can also be a time when healthy eating habits form. Doctors must understand if their patients have unhealthy habits that may need improvement.
4) What Type of Physical Activities Do You Enjoy?
Adolescents need to stay active. This question can help the doctor understand what exercise their patient may need to do more or less.
It will also help the provider learn about activities that make the individual feel more tired. That can help them identify possible problems they should address.
5) How Are Your Mental Health and Stress Levels?
Mental health is an essential part of overall health. The doctor must understand if the patient is overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed. That can help them provide the necessary support and guidance needed.
6) Are You Engaging in Risky Behaviors?
Adolescents may take part in activities that can harm their health and safety. The doctor needs to be aware of the risks their patient may be involved in and provide counsel on staying safe.
7) Are There Any Medications You Are Currently Taking?
This question allows the doctor to understand if there could be any potential interactions with medications they may prescribe.
Adolescents can also be more prone to taking medications not prescribed by a doctor. That’s why the provider needs to have an accurate list.
8) Are There Any Health Concerns in Your Family?
Understanding a patient’s family history can give the doctor more context and help them identify potential risks.
Preventative care can help them catch any potential health issues before they become a bigger problem.
When Should Adolescents Visit a Specialist?
Adolescents should visit a specialist when they experience any symptom or change in their health causing them concern. The same goes for when they have any family history of illnesses.
It’s also vital for teenagers to get regular check-ups and screenings. These things can help doctors catch potential issues before they become severe.
The Best Adolescent Doctors in Purchase, NY
Do you need the help of the best adolescent doctors near you in Purchase? Look no further than BridgeSpan Medicine. Our experienced and trained team of adolescent medicine specialists is dedicatedto caringfor patients aged 15-21. We also emphasize preventive care through routine check-ups, immunizations, on-site lab tests, and more.
To learn how we can help with our services, call our friendly staff today at (914) 698-5544. You can also use our convenient and secure online request form to book a consultation.
We look forward to helping adolescents get the care they deserve!
